Ashley + John's Fairytale Wedding in Southport - 9.26.15

Ashley + John wed at the stunning Southport Community Building on Saturday, September 26th, 2015. Ashley and her lovely bridesmaids spent the morning getting ready at the Lois Jane Inn in Southport while the groom and groomsmen got ready in the groom's suite at the community building. Ashley + John decided to do a "first look" with their photo and video team, Anchored In Love. I love it when couples do this! Not only does it allow you to save time when having to usually take family and bridal party photos post-ceremony during cocktail hour, but it gives the couple a chance to have an intimate and meaningful moment before the actual ceremony. I like to see the groom's reaction to seeing his bride for the first time too!

The ceremony took place outside on the deck at 5:00pm complete with 24 white leather couches, hand-crafted paper flower walls, 5 foot floral arrangements in tall gold vases, and a breathtaking riverfront view. I think I can speak for everyone when I say your heart could not help but melt when the couple tied a traditional sailor’s knot in honor of their union. Afterwards, all 105 of their friends and family were welcomed to cocktail hour where they were able to relax, catch up and congratulate the newlyweds in a tent alongside the community building. 

The reception began inside where each tables were decorated with gold linen, a sheer pink overlay, and an astonishing tall floral centerpiece by Kim Fisher Designs. Kim created beautiful floral compotes that ran down the head table for the bridal party as well. Each seat was complete with all gold stemware, napkins, and candle votives to create a romantic yet fun look. Guests were invited to take a seat and enjoy the delicious dinner served by Thyme Savor.  

During cocktail hour and dinner, the Knot Too Shabby Events crew flipped the ceremony area to create an inviting lounge area where lots of dancing would later take place. After dinner, the riverfront deck opened for dancing and was complete with softly lit lanterns, Edison lights, and gorgeous chandeliers. Anchored in Love captured timeless photos and video throughout the night of the newlyweds with friends and family. We know Ashley + John will never forget this night and neither will we. This was definitely one for the books and we could not have been more thrilled to be a part of such a beautiful wedding. Congratulations Mr. + Mrs. Sledge, we wish you the best!
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Favorite Wedding Moment:
I anticipated, dreamed and planned this wedding for nearly 9 months with Ashley and her mom, Amy. Upon my first consultation with them, they told me they wanted southern garden chic with a glimpse of Alice in Wonderland whimsical glam. Right there and then, I knew it was going to be a breath-taking wedding. From the white leather couches and white paper floral walls to the lush flowers for the ceremony and reception, no part of this wedding was a disappointment. My favorite part of the wedding was finally getting to set everything up and watching it all come together. We finished all of the set up right in time for the guest to arrive and we are so happy with how everything turned out. On the day before the wedding, we rented a tent due to a predicted downpour. I was so happy that the sky started to clear an hour before the ceremony and we were able to take away some of the sides on the tent to enjoy the beautiful Southport waterfront. It's hard to pick one favorite moment from this day but it would definitely be the set up for this fairytale wedding!

Vendors
Venue: Southport Community Building
Music: DJ Chris from Greensboro
Caterer: Thyme Savor Catering
Photography: Anchored In Love
Videography: Anchored in Love
Lighting: High Performance Lighting
Rentals: Party Suppliers + L&L
Florist: Kim Fisher Designs
Cake: Alison's Cakery
Hair: Kelly at Wisp Salon
Makeup: Amy Kennison
Officiant: Louis Shackelton from Leap of Faith Wedding Officiants
Transportation: Island Cart Rental
Partial Planning Coordination: Knot Too Shabby Events
Attendees: 105 people